Tournesol Award

The Tournesol Award recognizes one local painter each year, supporting them in taking the first major steps toward establishing a career in the Bay Area. The award gives financial and professional support to assist a dedicated painter in the critical early years of their artistic development.

Designed to support the artist over a full year, the Tournesol Award provides the chosen artist a $10,000 cash stipend, a private studio, and access to Headlands’ creative community. The award year culminates in a funded final project of the artist’s choice, typically in the form of an exhibition or a publication.

Award Period

Application period for 2018–19 program is March 27 to May 4, 2018. Program period is July 1, 2018–June 30, 2019.

Program Goals

To support promising Bay Area based painters in establishing a professional career in the Bay Area

To help ensure that the Bay Area is a vibrant center for emerging artists by providing local opportunities for their growth and success

To create a thriving cultural center for Bay Area artists to participate in a national and international artist community

Program Details

Fully sponsored, year-long residency with a $10,000 stipend

Final project, typically in the form of an exhibition or a publication, at the conclusion of the 12-month period

850-sq.-foot studio

Five chef-prepared meals per week (during Artist in Residence seasons)

Eligibility

Artist works primarily with paint on a two-dimensional surface

Artist’s primary residence must be in the Bay Area and for a minimum of 18 months prior to award application. Residence must have begun by November, 2016 for 2018–19 applicants. “Bay Area” is defined as Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, Santa Clara, San Francisco, San Mateo, Solano, and Sonoma counties.

Artist is in early stages of their career and can show dedication to their practice. Indications of early career stage AND dedication include:

Graduation from an accredited BFA or MFA program within the past five years (2013–2018) or equivalent recent non-academic experience and dedication

Participation in significant group and/or solo exhibitions

Has NOT had a retrospective showing with a significant institution or gallery

Alumni of Headlands’ Artists Programs are eligible to apply, with the exception of past recipients of Alumni New Works, Chamberlain, Chiaro, or Tournesol Awards. Former Artists in Residence (AIR) may apply three years after their previous residency.

Candidates may not be enrolled in school during the term of the award.

Selection Criteria

Merit of past work

Demonstrated commitment to pursuing excellence and innovation in the discipline of painting

Readiness to engage with and benefit from the experience at Headlands (see program goals)

Economic need will also be considered, secondary to an emphasis on talent and commitment to painting